Chicago sees record number of tourists so far in 2016

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago has set a new record for tourism through the first three quarters of the year, Mayor Rahm Emanuel's office said.

Overall, tourism from January 1 to September 30 of this year was more than two percent higher than the previous record set last year.

"Tourism in Chicago creates thousands of jobs that drive economic growth throughout the city," Mayor Emanuel said in a statement. "These newest records show that our efforts are driving results and bringing more and more people to Chicago to support economic opportunities in our neighborhoods."

In 2015, 52 million people visited Chicago, generating $935 million in tax revenue. The mayor hopes to welcome 55 million visitors annually by 2020.